Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, and it affects millions of people worldwide.

OA breaks down the cartilage in your joints. Cartilage is the slippery tissue that covers the ends of bones in a joint. Healthy cartilage absorbs the shock of movement. When cartilage is damaged, bones rub together. Over time, this rubbing can permanently damage the joint.

OA causes pain, swelling, and reduced motion in your joints. It can occur in any joint, but it usually affects the hands, knees, hips, or spine. OA symptoms gradually worsen over time, but staying active and maintaining a healthy weight can improve symptoms. Medicines and other treatments can slow the progression of OA. Risk factors for OA include being overweight, getting older, and injuring a joint.

OA occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in your joints gradually deteriorates. Cartilage is a firm, slippery tissue that permits nearly frictionless joint motion. In OA, the slick surface of the cartilage becomes rough. Eventually, if the cartilage wears down completely, you may be left with bone rubbing on bone.

OA usually happens gradually over time. Some risk factors that might lead to OA include:

• being overweight
• getting older
• joint injury
• joints that are not properly formed
• a genetic defect in joint cartilage
• stresses on the joints from certain jobs and playing sports

See your doctor if joint pain or stiffness lasts more than a few weeks or limits daily activities. Your pharmacist can suggest options for relief, and weight management and activity help protect joints.